Best Buy, Kohl's In Arlington Heights To Require Masks

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Walmart joined a growing list of retailers Wednesday when the company announced it will soon require shoppers to wear masks. The requirement applies to Walmart’s 5,000-plus U.S. stores and includes Sam’s Club locations.

The requirement goes into effect Monday, the company said.

Walmart and other retailers are issuing blanket policies requiring mask use by customers. On Tuesday, Best Buy announced it would start requiring masks in all stores. A similar mandate went into effect at Starbucks on Wednesday, and Costco has required masks since May. Kohl's also announced shoppers will be required to wear face coverings July 20.

While details of the new policy are still being ironed out for Walmart stores, according to The New York Times, the company said Sam’s Club will provide complimentary masks to customers who don’t have one.

In its statement, Walmart said that 65 percent of its stores currently are in areas where there is already some form of government mandate to wear masks.

In addition to posting signage at the front of stores, Walmart has created a new role of "health ambassador," who will be stationed near the entrance to remind those without a mask of the new requirements.

Here are some Arlington Heights and nearby locations of these retailers:

• Kohl's, Ridge Plaza, 800 W Dundee Road, Arlington Heights
• Best Buy, Town & Country Center, 615 E Palatine Road, Arlington Heights
• Walmart, 1460 Golf Road, Rolling Meadows
• Sam's Club, 101 W Oakton St., Des Plaines

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